Mr. Edward Kareweh, Secretary-General of the Agriculture Workers Union (GAWU), has raised alarm over the decreasing government contribution to the agriculture sector in Ghana. In a recent interview with the Ghana News Agency, he highlighted the reduction in subsidies for fertilizers, irrigation infrastructure development, and tariffs on imported agricultural produce, which has led to a rise in the cost of agricultural inputs for farmers.
According to Mr. Kareweh, the subsidy on fertilizer has been steadily decreasing over the years, going from 50 percent in 2017 to just 15 percent in 2022, and no subsidy at all in 2023. This trend has resulted in a higher financial burden for farmers, making it challenging for some to sustain their production levels. Consequently, food inflation has been on the rise due to lower total output and increased production costs.
The declining government investment in the agriculture sector has a profound impact on farmers and agricultural production. With reduced support, farmers are forced to bear more of the production costs, leading to decreased output and rising prices for agricultural products. This situation not only affects farmers’ livelihoods but also impacts the overall economy as the agriculture sector plays a vital role in Ghana’s economic growth.
Mr. Kareweh urged the government to take immediate action to address the issue by increasing investment in the agriculture sector and providing substantial support to farmers. He also emphasized the need for local fertilizer production to enhance agriculture production and called for measures to alleviate the financial burdens faced by stakeholders in the sector. By prioritizing and bolstering the agriculture sector, Ghana can strengthen food security, boost the economy, and create a more sustainable future for its farmers and citizens.
